PSC the arteriosclerosis of the bile duct?

[Guest guest]

Fri, 26 Jan 2007

08:42:13 -0800

Primary sclerosing cholangitis - the arteriosclerosis of the bile duct?

by Arteriosclerosis

Fri, 26 Jan 2007

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) represents a chronic inflammatory disease

of the large bile ducts of unknown aetiology and

characterized by periductal fibrosis and stricture

formation, which ultimately result in biliary cirrhosis and liver failure. Arteriosclerosis involves the accumulation of altered

lipids and lipoproteins in large arteries; this drives inflammation and

fibrosis and ultimately leads to arterial stenosis and hypoperfusion

of dependent organs and tissues.Knowledge of the

causative factors is crucial if disease mechanisms are to be understood and

specific treatment developed. Based on pathogenetic similarities between PSC and arteriosclerosis,

we hypothesize that PSC represents an arterioSCLEROSIS

of the bile duct initiated by toxic biliary lipids. This

hypothesis is based on common molecular, cellular, and morphological features

providing the framework for a deepened understanding of their pathogenesis and

should stimulate translational research that could offer some promise in the

search for novel treatment strategies for both diseases. (Source:

Lipids in Health and Disease)

Barb in Texas - Together in the Fight, Whatever it Takes!

Son Ken (32) UC 91 - PSC 99 Listed 7/21 @ Baylor Dallas